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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-05-01-Meeting Agenda Commission Meeting Agenda Commission Chamber 5/1/2007 2:00 PM INVOCATION: Reverend John Lockhart, Fellowship Baptist Church. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Five (5) minute time limit per delegation DELEGATIONS A. Mr. Willie Jones and Bob Wilson, Walton Options for Independent Living. RE:Request for in-kind services (city bus) to support Community Fair June 14, 2007. Attachments CONSENT AGENDA (Items 1-5) PLANNING 1. ZA-R-179 – A request for concurrence with the Augusta- Richmond County Planning Commission to APPROVE a petition to consider an amendment to the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for Augusta-Richmond County which would amend Section 35 of the Ordinance entitled “Amendments to this Ordinance” by bringing it into conformance with the Georgia Zoning Procedure Law (OCGA 36-66) and other laws. (Approved by the Augusta Commission April 17, 2007 - second reading) Attachments PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS 2. Motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Augusta Commission held April 17, 2007. Attachments APPOINTMENT(S) 3. Motion to approve the reappointment of Janice Jenkins to the ARC Coliseum Authority representing District 5. Attachments 4. Motion to approve the appointment of Earnestine Howard to the Augusta Canal Authority representing District 1. Attachments 5. Motion to reappoint Richard Isdell to the Coliseum Authority representing District 7. Attachments ****END CONSENT AGENDA**** AUGUSTA COMMISSION 5/1/2007 AUGUSTA COMMISSION REGULAR AGENDA 5/1/2007 (Items 6-22) PUBLIC SERVICES 6. New Application: A. N. 07 - 21: A request by Ritaben S. Patel for a retail package Beer & Wine license to be used in connection with Spring Express located at 3150 Wrightsboro Rd. District 5. Super District 9. Attachments 7. Motion to review a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for Bus Advertising for three years with two (2) year optional extension. Attachments ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES 8. Appoint Gaynell Bonner as coordinator of the community and faith based efforts to organize repeat offender program in coordination with church and other community based ministries and programs. (Requested by Mayor Pro Tem Betty Beard) Attachments 9. Motion to approve petition to merge the 1998 Pension Plan, the 1977 Pension Plan, the GMEBS Pension Plan, Employees with no pension plan and submit a 180 day notice of cancellation to GEBCorp/Nationwide. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Attachments FINANCE 10. Request financial audit of DDA, Main Street, and Saturday Market finances by city's audit firm. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Attachments 11. Discuss/approve the recommendations from Administration regarding enhancements to the James Brown Statue. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Attachments 12. Approve hiring an independent auditor to determine the cost of the proposed merger of certain pension plans. (Requested by Commissioner Jerry Brigham) Attachments 13. Approve SPLOST V Contractor Agreements for quality of life projects; Improvements to the Augusta Museum of History, Inc.; Imperial Theatre Improvement Project; Improvements to Lucy Craft Laney Museum and Conference Center; Construction of new tennis courts at Fleming Tennis Center; New facilities for the Augusta Mini Theatre Project. (Requested by Commissioner Jerry Brigham) Attachments ENGINEERING SERVICES 14. Approve the proposal by Arcadis for subsurface evaluation of the Attachments Laney Walker Sewer Line in the amount of $108,485.00. 15. Discuss removal of level (2) dam and gates from level (2) junction with level (3) of the canal in preparation for white water course with the Canal Authority. Request RFP for work. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Attachments 16. Status report from Canal Authority on restoration plans for tow path area between the city's pumping station and I-20. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Attachments 17. Consider a request from Mr. Curt Page regarding relief from garbage service fees for property located at 2609 Ivey Road. (No recommendation from Engineering Services Committee April 9, 2007) Attachments PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS 18. Motion to approve the purchase of tickets to annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast Thursday, May 3, 2007. Attachments OTHER BUSINESS 19. Discuss adding the President or his designee of the Board of Education to the ARC Planning Commission as an Ex-Officio member. (Requested by Commissioner Jerry Brigham) Attachments 20. Discuss Commission censure of commissioner that violated city code by instructing subordinate, non-direct reporting IT personnel to copy City Administrator's Hard Drive. Acting individually without full commission approval. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Attachments 21. Receive report from the EEO Coordinator/Legal Counsel regarding pending EEO issues relating to personnel. (Legal Attachments Upcoming Meetings www.augustaga.gov meeting) LEGAL MEETING A. Pending and Potential Litigation. B. Real Estate. C. Personnel. 22. Motion to approve execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance with Georgia's Open Meeting Act. Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Invocation Department: Caption:Reverend John Lockhart, Fellowship Baptist Church. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Walton Options Department: Caption:Mr. Willie Jones and Bob Wilson, Walton Options for Independent Living. RE:Request for in-kind services (city bus) to support Community Fair June 14, 2007. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Planning Commission Department:Planning Commission Caption:ZA-R-179 – A request for concurrence with the Augusta- Richmond County Planning Commission to APPROVE a petition to consider an amendment to the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for Augusta-Richmond County which would amend Section 35 of the Ordinance entitled “Amendments to this Ordinance” by bringing it into conformance with the Georgia Zoning Procedure Law (OCGA 36-66) and other laws. (Approved by the Augusta Commission April 17, 2007 - second reading) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission ORDINANCE ______ An Ordinance to amend the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance adopted by the Augusta-Richmond County Commission effective September 16, 1997 by amending Section 35 (Amendments to the Ordinance) of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. The purpose of the Amendment is to bring the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance into conformity with the Georgia Zoning Procedures Law (O.C.G.A. 36-66) and other Laws THE AUGUSTA COMMISSION HEREBY ORDAINS: SECTION I. That the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance is amended by deleting the current language in Section 35 (Amendments to the Ordinance) in its entirety: 35-1 Review of proposed Amendments: This Ordinance, including the map or maps, may be amended from time to time, but no amendment shall become effective unless it shall have been proposed by, or first submitted to the Planning Commission for review and recommendation. 35-2 Procedure for Public Hearing: (a) The Planning Commission shall conduct, on behalf of the Augusta Commission, all public hearings on proposed amendments to this Ordinance and maps. (b) At least 15 but not more than 45 days prior to the date of the hearing, the Planning Commission shall cause to be published within a newspaper of general circulation within the territorial boundaries of the local government a notice of the hearing. The notice shall state the time, place, and purpose of the hearing. If a zoning decision of a local government is for the rezoning of property and the rezoning is initiated by a party other than the local government then: (1) The notice shall include the location of the property, the present zoning classification of the property, and the proposed zoning classification of the property; and (2) A sign indicating the present zoning classification and the proposed zoning classification shall be placed in a conspicuous location on the property not less than 15 days prior to the date of the hearing. (c) The recommendations of the Planning Commission shall be submitted to the Augusta Commission within thirty (30) days. If the Planning Commission fails to submit a report within the thirty-day period, it shall have deemed to approve the proposed amendment. 35-3 Application for Amendment: Each application to amend this Ordinance, including the map or maps, shall be filed with the Planning Commission and shall be in compliance with the following: (a) A conference with the Staff of the Planning Commission shall be held prior to submission of the application. (b) A statement from the owner of the property submitting the petition, or a statement from the owner of the property designating his representative in the petition, shall be furnished with the petition on a form supplied by the Planning Commission. (c) A properly prepared plat of the property showing distances and bearings of the boundaries and a tie to a known point shall be included with the petition. At the discretion of the staff, a tax map may be substituted for the plat. (d) A letter from the owner or his authorized representative requesting the amendment, including a statement regarding the proposed use, address and telephone number for correspondence, and any other information required elsewhere in this Ordinance, shall be included with the petition. (e) A fee which has been calculated by the Planning Commission as representative of the cost of processing and advertisement of the proposed amendment shall be paid at the time of application. 35-4 Staff Evaluation: The Staff, upon receipt of an application for an amendment to this Ordinance shall: (a) Consult with other departments of the Augusta Commission to fully evaluate the impact of any zoning change upon public facilities and services including, but not limited to, schools, drainage, traffic, and related facilities; (b) Conduct a site review of the property and the surrounding area; (c) Study each application with reference to its appropriateness and effect on existing land use and its compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance. (d) Report its findings and recommendation to the Planning Commission, which report shall be a matter of public record; (e) The Planning Commission Staff's report may recommend conditions to the applicant's request which would reduce the land area for which the application is made and/or recommend conditions of rezoning which may be deemed advisable so that the purpose of this Ordinance will be served. 35-5 Planning Commission Action: The Planning Commission shall review and make a recommendation of approval, denial, deferral, withdrawal without prejudice, or no recommendation, on each application for which a public hearing is held in accordance with the Official Code of Georgia and the Ordinance of the Augusta Commission, enacted. Staff recommendations on applications shall be submitted to the Planning Commission prior to the public hearing. A report of the Planning Commission's decision shall be submitted to the Governing Body. The action of the Planning Commission may recommend a reduction of the land area for which the request is made and/or recommend conditions of rezoning which may be deemed advisable so that the purpose of this Ordinance will be served. 35-6 Governing Body Action: The Augusta Commission shall, at a regular meeting, approve, deny, or defer action on an application for rezoning or another action provided for in the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. The action of the Augusta Commission may recommend a reduction of the land area of which the application is made and/or recommend conditions of rezoning which may be deemed advisable, so that the purpose of this Ordinance will be served. Conditional zoning may require that a zoning classification once granted shall revert to the former zoning classification under certain specific circumstances, such as the cessation of the proposed use. When staff determines that reversion is warranted a certified letter shall be sent to the owner of record notifying of the pending reversion and affording a 30 day period to register an objection. If no objection is registered then no further action by the Governing Body shall be required, the reversion shall occur automatically, and the zoning map shall be changed accordingly. If an objection is raised then the matter shall be placed on the next regular meeting agenda for the Augusta Commission and the owner shall show cause as to why the reversion should not take place. The Governing Body may then act to implement the reversion, terminate the reversion, or return the matter to the staff for further evaluation. When conditions are added to approval of an application, the Augusta Commission shall require that a Zoning Restriction Agreement be recorded with the Clerk of the Superior Court of Richmond County, Georgia. The cost of recording such agreement shall be borne by the applicant. 35-7 Reversionary Clause: The Planning Commission Staff may submit information to the Augusta Commission having jurisdiction relative to property which has been rezoned for a period of eighteen (18) months from the date of approval, and for which no site plan or subdivision development plan approval or building permit has been obtained. The Augusta Commission may then review such information and, if considered appropriate, initiate reversionary zoning procedures. Such reversionary actions shall proceed in accordance with the amendment provisions of this Ordinance. 35-8 If the zoning decision of a local government is for the rezoning of property and the amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to accomplish the rezoning is defeated by the local government, then the same property may not again be considered for rezoning until the expiration of at least six months immediately following the defeat of the rezoning by the local government. A zoning application for the rezoning of the same property to the same classification as the defeated amendment, may not again be considered until the expiration of at least one (1) year immediately following the defeat of the original application by the Commission. 35-9 Land Adjacent to Fort Gordon Zoning proposals (including map changes by rezoning or special exception) involving land located within 3,000 feet of the Fort Gordon Military Installation boundary shall be evaluated Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 36-66.6. The Planning Commission, in conducting this evaluation shall request from the Fort Gordon Commander a written recommendation and supporting facts, and if provided, such information shall be considered and made part of the public record. The Planning Commission shall investigate and make a recommendation regarding the following: (1) Whether the zoning proposal will permit a use that is suitable in view of the use of adjacent or nearby property within 3,000 feet of a military base, military base, military installation, or military airport; (2) Whether the zoning proposal will adversely affect the existing use or usability of nearby property within 3,000 feet of a military base, military installation, or military airport; (3) Whether the property to be affected by the zoning proposal has a reasonable economic use as currently zoned; (4) Whether the zoning proposal will result in a use which will or could cause a safety concern with respect to excessive or burdensome use of existing streets, transportation facilities, utilities, or schools due to the use of nearby property as a military base, military installation, or military airport; (5) If the local government has an adopted land use plan, whether the zoning proposal is in conformity with the policy and intent of the land use plan; and (6) Whether there are other existing or changing conditions affecting the use of the nearby property as a military base, military installation, or military airport which give supporting grounds for either approval or disapproval of the zoning proposal. SECTION II. That the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance is amended by adding a new Section 35 (Amendments to the Ordinance): 35-1 Review of Proposed Amendments: This Ordinance, including the map or maps, may be amended from time to time, but no amendment shall become effective unless it shall have been proposed by, or first submitted to the Planning Commission for review and recommendation. 35-2 Procedures for Public Hearing: (a) The Planning Commission shall conduct, on behalf of the Augusta- Commission, all public hearings on proposed amendments to this Ordinance and maps. (b) At least 15 but not more than 45 days prior to the date of the hearing, the Planning Commission shall cause to be published within a newspaper of general circulation within the territorial boundaries of the local government a notice of the hearing. The notice shall state the time, place, and purpose of the hearing. If a zoning decision of a local government is for the rezoning of property and the rezoning is initiated by a party other than the local government then: (1) The notice shall include the location of the property, the present zoning classification of the property, and the proposed zoned classification of the property; and (2) A sign indicating the present zoning classification and the proposed zoning classification shall be placed in a conspicuous location on the property not less than 15 days prior to the date of the hearing. (c) The Recommendations of the Planning Commission shall be submitted to the governing body having jurisdiction within thirty (30) days. If the Planning Commission fails to submit a report within the thirty-day period, it shall have deemed to approve the proposed amendment. 35-3 Application for Amendment: Each application to amend this Ordinance, including the map or maps, shall be filed with the Planning Commission and shall be in compliance with the following: (a) A conference with the Staff of the Planning Commission shall be held prior to submission of the application. (b) A statement from the owner of the property submitting the petition, or a statement from the owner of the property designating his representative in the petition, shall be furnished with the petition on a form supplied by the Planning Commission. (c) A properly prepared plat of the property showing distances and bearings of the boundaries and a tie to a known point shall be included with the petition. This can be waived by the Staff when the proposed rezoning involves complete parcel(s) under the Tax Assessors PIN scheme. (d) A letter from the owner or his authorized representative requesting the amendment, including a statement regarding the proposed use, address and telephone number for correspondence, and any other information required elsewhere in this Ordinance, shall be included with the petition. (e) A fee which has been calculated by the Planning Commission as representative of the cost of processing an advertisement of the proposed amendment shall be paid at the time of application. 35-4 Staff Evaluation: The Staff, upon receipt of an application for an amendment to this Ordinance shall: (a) Consult with other departments of the Augusta-Richmond County to fully evaluate the impact of any zoning change upon public facilities and services including, but not limited to, drainage, traffic and related facilities: (b) Conduct a site review of the property and the surrounding area. (c) Study each application with reference to the balancing test established in Guhl v Holcomb Bridge Road Corporation and its compliance with the Comprehensive Plan. (d) Report its findings and recommendation to the Planning Commission, which report shall be a matter of public record. (e) The Planning Commission Staff’s report may recommend the applicant’s request be reduced in land area and /or recommend conditions of rezoning which may be deemed advisable so that the purpose of this Ordinance will be served. 35-5 Planning Commission Action: The Planning Commission shall review and make a recommendation of approval, denial, deferral, withdrawal without prejudice, or no recommendation on each application for which a public hearing is held in accordance with an Ordinance of the City Council of Augusta, Georgia and the Board of Commissioners of Richmond County, enacted April 1, 1983 and codified after consolidation of the governments as Article 8, Chapter 5 of the Augusta Code. The staff recommendations on applications shall be submitted to the Planning Commission prior to the public hearing. A report of the Planning Commission’s decision shall be submitted to the Augusta Commission. The action of the Planning Commission may recommend a reduction of the land area for which the request is made and/or recommend conditions of rezoning which may be deemed advisable so that the purpose of this Ordinance will be served. 35-6 Governing Body Action: The Augusta Commission shall, at a regular meeting, approve, deny or defer action on such application. The action of the Augusta Commission may recommend a reduction of the land area for which the application is made and/or recommend conditions of rezoning which may be deemed advisable so that the purpose of this Ordinance will be served. When such conditions are added to approval of an application, the Augusta Commission shall require that a Zoning Restriction Agreement be recorded with the Clerk of the Superior Court of Augusta-Richmond County, Georgia. The cost of recording such agreement shall be borne by the applicant. 35-7 Reversionary Clause: The Planning Commission may submit information to the Augusta Commission having jurisdiction relative to property which has been rezoned for a period of eighteen (18) months from the date of approval, and for which no site plan or subdivision development plan approval or building permit has been obtained. The Augusta Commission may then review such information and, if considered appropriate, initiate reversionary zoning procedures. Such reversionary actions shall proceed in accordance with the amendment provisions of this Ordinance. 35-8 If the zoning decision of a local government is for the rezoning of property and the amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to accomplish the rezoning is defeated by the local government, then the same property may not again be considered for rezoning until the expiration of at least six (6) months immediately following the defeat of the rezoning by the local government. A zoning application for the rezoning of the same property to the same classification as the defeated amendment, may not again be considered until the expiration of at least one (1) year immediately following the defeat of the original application by the local government. 35-9 Land Adjacent to Fort Gordon Military Installation: Zoning proposals (including changes of zoning and special exceptions) involving land locating with 3,000 feet of the Fort Gordon Military Installation boundary shall be evaluated Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 36-66.6. The Planning Commission, in conducting this evaluation shall request from the Fort Gordon Commander a written recommendation and supporting facts, and if provided, such information shall be considered and made part of the public record. The Planning Commission shall investigate and make a recommendation regarding the following: (a) Whether the zoning proposal will permit a use that is suitable in view of the use of adjacent or nearby property within 3,000 feet of a military base, military installation, or military airport; (b) Whether the zoning proposal will adversely affect the existing use or usability of nearby property within 3,000 feet of a military base, military installation, or military airport; (c) Whether the property to be affected by the zoning proposal has a reasonable economic use as currently zoned; (d) Whether the zoning proposal will result in a use which will or could cause a safety concern with respect to excessive or burdensome use of existing street, transportation facilities, utilities, or schools due to the use of nearby property as a military base, military installation, or military airport; (e) Whether the zoning proposal is in conformity with the policy and intent of the land use plan; and (f) Whether there are other existing or changing conditions affecting the use of the nearby property as a military base, military installation, or military airport which give supporting grounds for either approval or disapproval of the zoning proposal. 35-10 Halfway Houses and Drug Rehabilitation Centers: When a proposed zoning decision relates to or will allow the location or relocation of a halfway house, drug rehabilitation center, or other facility for treatment of drug dependency, a public hearing shall be held on the proposed action. Such public hearing shall be held at least six (6) months and not more than nine (9) months prior to the date of final action on the zoning decision. The hearing required by this subsection shall be in addition to any hearing required under subsection (a) of this Code section. The local government shall give notice of such hearing by: (a) Posting notice on the affected premises in the manner prescribed by subsection (b) of this Code section; and (b) Publishing in a newspaper of general circulation within the territorial boundaries of the local government a notice of the hearing at least 15 days and not more than 45 days prior to the date of the hearing. Both the posted notice and the published notice shall include a prominent statement that the proposed zoning decision relates to or will allow the location or relocation of a halfway house, drug rehabilitation center, or other facility for the treatment of drug dependency. The published notice shall be at least six (6) column inches in size and shall not be located in the classified advertising section of the newspaper. 35-11 Land adjacent to the Cities of Hephzibah and Blythe: When a rezoning or special exception is initiated by a property owner or by Augusta-Richmond County affecting property located within 1,000 feet of either Hephzibah or Blythe, notice must be given to those local municipalities. Such notice shall be in the form of a certified letter sent within five (5) business days of the acceptance of an application to the appropriate municipality. The notice shall contain all relevant data and request a determination as to whether the proposed action would constitute an incompatible land use. If within ten (10) business days after receipt of this notice the appropriate municipality notifies Augusta-Richmond County by certified mail that the proposal could constitute an incompatible land use then Augusta-Richmond County and the municipality must begin a negotiation process described in an agreement between Augusta-Richmond County, Hephzibah, and Blythe dated June 30, 1998 known as the “Agreement to Resolve Land Use Classification Disputes”. 35-12 Land adjacent to the Augusta Canal: The Augusta Canal is a Regionally Important Resource (RIR) as identified by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act of 1989. As such any request for a rezoning or special exception affecting property located within the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area is subject to a review process initiated through the Central Savannah River Area. (RDC). SECTION III. All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed. Done in Open Meeting under the Common Seal thereof this ______ day of __________________, 2007 APPROVED THIS _______ day of ____________________, 2007. __________________________________________ MAYOR, AUGUSTA COMMISSION AUGUSTA, GEORGIA ATTEST: ___________________________________________ CLERK OF COMMISSION Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Alcohol License Application Department:License & Inspections Caption:New Application: A. N. 07 - 21: A request by Ritaben S. Patel for a retail package Beer & Wine license to be used in connection with Spring Express located at 3150 Wrightsboro Rd. District 5. Super District 9. Background:This is a new application. The applicant is building a new store. Analysis:The applicant meets the requirements of the Augusta Richmond County Alcohol Ordinance. Financial Impact:The applicant will pay a fee of $ 1210.00. Alternatives: Recommendation:License & Inspections recommends approval. The RCSD recommends approval. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Administrator. Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Draft Request For Proposal (RFP) Bus Advertising Department:Augusta Public Transit Caption:Motion to review a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for Bus Advertising for three years with two (2) year optional extension. Background:At the March 12, 2007 Public Services Meeting, Augusta Public Transit was asked to draft a Request for Proposal for advertising on the buses. The advertising of goods and services on the public transit system can generate revenue and is a good source of public relations for Transit and the citizens of Augusta-Richmond County and all visitors to the city. Analysis:Support of the agenda will give Augusta Public Transit another possible means of bringing in additional revenue. Financial Impact:Support of the agenda will help to offset the cost of maintaining the public transit system. Alternatives:Non-approval. Recommendation:Approve the RFP for the bidding process. See attached RFP. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Coordinator for Community and Faith Based Programs Department:Clerk of Commission Caption:Appoint Gaynell Bonner as coordinator of the community and faith based efforts to organize repeat offender program in coordination with church and other community based ministries and programs. (Requested by Mayor Pro Tem Betty Beard) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Petition to Merge the 1998 Pension Plan, the 1977 Pension Plan, the GMEBS Pension Plan, Employees with no pension plan and submit a 180 day notice of cancellation to GEBCorp/Nationwide. Department:Human Resources Caption:Motion to approve petition to merge the 1998 Pension Plan, the 1977 Pension Plan, the GMEBS Pension Plan, Employees with no pension plan and submit a 180 day notice of cancellation to GEBCorp/Nationwide. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Background:In May of 2006 a Pension Plan Study Committee was assembled to review the 1998 Pension Plan, the 1977 Pension Plan and the GMEBS Pension Plan. On July 18th 2006, the Augusta Commission approved that an Actuarial study be performed by GMEBS (Georgia Municipal Employees Benefit System) to explore the financial feasibility of merging the three plans as well as allow employees with no current pension plan to join the new merged plan. Analysis:There has been much concern about the Pension Plans offered by Augusta, in particular, three (3) of the plans have been discussed and targeted for improvement. A spreadsheet has been attached which highlights the plan features of three (3) plans to be merged. The spreadsheet also includes the plan features of the newly merged plan which is to be administered by GMEBS. Members of the 1998 Pension Plan and the 1977 Pension Plan will have the option not to join the new plan. Employees in the GMEBS Pension Plan and Employees with no pension plan will have no option and as a result will be added to the new GMEBS Pension Plan. At retirement employees who are currently in the GMEBS plan will have their benefits calculated at the current formula and the new formula with the option to receive the higher benefit amount. The proposed implementation date of the new plan will be January 1, 2008. Year one, the employee contribution will be 4% with a benefit formula of 1.4. Year two, the employee contribution will be increased to 6% and the benefit formula will remain at 1.4%. Year three, the employee contribution will remain 6% and the benefit will be increased to 1.65%. There will be an option to raise the employee contribution to a maximum of 7.5% in the future to help offset future cost to Augusta. Financial Impact:In 2006 Augusta spent $2,307,867 to fund the 1998 Pension Plan, the 1977 Pension Plan and the GMEBS Pension Plan. The proposed cost of the newly merged pension cost for the current year would be $2,100,000, a savings of $207,867 the first year. Alternatives:Do not approve petition to Merge the 1998 Pension Plan, the 1977 Pension Plan, the GMEBS Pension Plan, Employees with no pension plan and submit a 180 day notice of cancellation to GEBCorp/Nationwide. Recommendation:Approve petition to Merge the 1998 Pension Plan, the 1977 Pension Plan, the GMEBS Pension Plan, Employees with no pension plan and submit a 180 day notice of cancellation to GEBCorp/Nationwide. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM DDA Audit Department: Caption:Request financial audit of DDA, Main Street, and Saturday Market finances by city's audit firm. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM James Brown Statue Department: Caption:Discuss/approve the recommendations from Administration regarding enhancements to the James Brown Statue. (Requested by Commissioner Marion Williams) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Pension Independent Audit Department: Caption:Approve hiring an independent auditor to determine the cost of the proposed merger of certain pension plans. (Requested by Commissioner Jerry Brigham) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM SPLOST V Agreements Department: Caption:Approve SPLOST V Contractor Agreements for quality of life projects; Improvements to the Augusta Museum of History, Inc.; Imperial Theatre Improvement Project; Improvements to Lucy Craft Laney Museum and Conference Center; Construction of new tennis courts at Fleming Tennis Center; New facilities for the Augusta Mini Theatre Project. (Requested by Commissioner Jerry Brigham) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Arcadis - Laney Walker Sewer Evaluation Department:Utilities Caption:Approve the proposal by Arcadis for subsurface evaluation of the Laney Walker Sewer Line in the amount of $108,485.00. Background:Emergency Work to the Laney Walker Sewer line continues to proceed. Approximately 3,900 linear feet has been replaced between 2nd Street and Columbia Nitrogen Drive. 5,350 linear feet still remains to be replaced. The purpose of this agenda item is to obtain approval for the proposal from Arcadis to evaluate the condition of the remaining sections of the Laney Walker sewer line. This evaluation will provide valuable information as to the locations of the next probable failures, as well as the method needed to employ to replace the damaged sewer line. Analysis:The proposal to evaluate 5,350 linear feet of the sanitary sewer line is $108,485, or $20.27 per linear foot. The main value in obtaining this information is being able to determine where the sewer line is most vulnerable to future failures. These areas may then be addressed first so as to minimize unforeseen failures. This evaluation will also allow for the line to be assessed regarding possible replacement method. In some cases it will be cost effective to slip-line the pipe instead of open cutting, however, an evaluation must be made in order for this determination to be made. The work at Laney Walker needs to be performed as soon as possible due to the continued threat of a major sewage spill due to the deteriorated pipe. AUD believes that Arcadis is the best firm from which to request these services. As a result of their work in Gwinnett County, they have the most experience of any firm in Georgia, and consequently, this is the reason we have asked their firm for the attached proposal. Financial Impact:$108,485.00 from the AUD R&E budget. Alternatives:Do not approve of the Arcadis proposal and seek proposals from other vendors. Recommendation:It is recommended to approve the proposal by Arcadis for subsurface evaluation of the Laney Walker Sewer Line in the amount of $108,485.00. Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: 507043420-5425210 / 80500020-5425210 REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Finance. Procurement. Administrator. Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Canal Department: Caption:Discuss removal of level (2) dam and gates from level (2) junction with level (3) of the canal in preparation for white water course with the Canal Authority. Request RFP for work. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Canal Tow Path Department: Caption:Status report from Canal Authority on restoration plans for tow path area between the city's pumping station and I-20. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Curt Page Department:Clerk of Commission Caption:Consider a request from Mr. Curt Page regarding relief from garbage service fees for property located at 2609 Ivey Road. (No recommendation from Engineering Services Committee April 9, 2007) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Mayor's Prayer Breakfast Department: Caption:Motion to approve the purchase of tickets to annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast Thursday, May 3, 2007. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Minutes Department: Caption:Motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the Augusta Commission held April 17, 2007. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Appointment District Five. Department: Caption:Motion to approve the reappointment of Janice Jenkins to the ARC Coliseum Authority representing District 5. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Appointment District One Department: Caption:Motion to approve the appointment of Earnestine Howard to the Augusta Canal Authority representing District 1. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Appointments Seventh District Department: Caption:Motion to reappoint Richard Isdell to the Coliseum Authority representing District 7. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM BOE Planning Commission Department: Caption:Discuss adding the President or his designee of the Board of Education to the ARC Planning Commission as an Ex- Officio member. (Requested by Commissioner Jerry Brigham) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Censure Department: Caption:Discuss Commission censure of commissioner that violated city code by instructing subordinate, non-direct reporting IT personnel to copy City Administrator's Hard Drive. Acting individually without full commission approval. (Requested by Commissioner Andy Cheek) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM EEO Department: Caption:Receive report from the EEO Coordinator/Legal Counsel regarding pending EEO issues relating to personnel. (Legal meeting) Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission Commission Meeting Agenda 5/1/2007 2:00 PM Affidavit Department:Clerk of Commission Caption:Motion to approve execution by the Mayor of the affidavit of compliance with Georgia's Open Meeting Act. Background: Analysis: Financial Impact: Alternatives: Recommendation: Funds are Available in the Following Accounts: REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY: Clerk of Commission